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How to Restore Timber Sash Windows in Cambridge Many homes in Cambridge feature traditional sash window and homeowners are proud of their appearance. Sash windows can get stuck and become difficult to open and close. This is typically due to moisture that can cause the wood to swell. Box sash windows were historically operated using chains or cotton cords, as well as weights made of lead. Modern sash window springs are hidden to avoid this issue. 1. Aesthetics Unlike PVC-u windows that are manufactured according to imperial sizes that are modular the timber sash windows are able to be restored to their original dimensions. This allows for the restoration of timber sash windows to comply with current energy standards and to comply with conservation area regulations. It also gives windows that have a more attractive appearance than uPVC alternatives. Sliding sash window frames were initially only used in large buildings or public buildings. However this changed as production became more affordable and artisans could produce larger frames with more glass. At the close of the 18th century, sash windows were the most popular wooden style in British homes. Sash windows were simple to operate and let light in rooms without the need for curtains. The first windows were made of plain glass, but in the 17th century sash windows started to become more decorative with coloured glazing bars and moulded mullions. They were expensive at the time but as glass production improved and less expensive, they became a feature of many period houses. In the 19th century, it became possible to create large, strong glasses that didn't need supporting bars. This allowed the frame's size to be enlarged more, which in turn meant more of a view from the window. This was a very important improvement. Another significant improvement was the introduction of the double-hung sliding window at the end of I920s and the beginning of the I930s. The double-hung sliding sash was a important improvement that came into existence at the end of the I920s, and at the beginning of the I930s. The most common type of sash is constructed of slow-growing deal (pine) however oak was also used in more expensive buildings as well as in some earlier examples. It is essential to keep the parting bead that divides the sashes. This will help prevent draughts and rattles. It is also crucial that the idler and sash pulley wheels are kept in good condition as these help to operate the window. 2. Energy efficiency Sash windows were replaced by hinged casements as clearer and larger sheets became available. They were glazed with plate glass placed within timber frames with rebates and secured with glazing sprigs, with putty on both sides to make them watertight. This type of glazing gradually superseded led lights. The introduction of sashes created an need for a wider range of ironmongery, with the basic fittings being brass pulleys as well as lead (and later cast iron) weights, sash stoppers shutter hinges, knobs and shutters as well as a range of fasteners used to keep the sashes in the right place. These were often decorated in designs, inscriptions, and patterns engraved to identify the maker. With regular maintenance, sash windows are extremely energy efficient. Without this maintenance they can get noisy. Paint and putty can cause draughts too. This can be corrected using proprietary wood-to-timber repair products. The replacement window industry relies on the perception that old windows are damaged and beyond economical repair, but they can be maintained with a bit of care. These repairs can be expensive and cause a lot of disruption in the home. To avoid this homeowners, many prefer to replace their windows with PVC-u windows made by one of the largest “one stop shop” installation companies. These can remove and replace all windows in a home within a single day, avoiding the need to coordinate multiple tradesmen and making the entire process much faster. They are also available with 'energy saving' double-glazing to get more energy efficient ratings than traditional windows with sash. However, these double-glazed units cannot reproduce the proportions and section of the sashes made of timber from the past. 3. Security Traditional windows can be made secure without compromising their aesthetics. Ironmongery such as sash chain, mortice bolts and sash lock could be installed. They can be fitted in such a way that the window can still be opened for ventilation and cleaning. They are generally not noticeable, since they are designed to complement the sash window. They can be used alongside traditional sash-window catchers that are required to be replaced with more robust models (such ones with double screws) or spring levers to decrease the possibility of them being hammered out. Sash-window frames are usually made from oak or slow-grown deal. When glazing bars have survived they should be kept and, if feasible, the wood of the cill should be replaced by identical wood. Many PVC-U firms provide a one-stop shop installation service. They can take out and replace windows on an entire home in a single day, without involving any other tradespeople. 4. Ventilation When sash windows were first introduced in the 17th century, they allowed a large amount of light to flood into the buildings. By the end of the 18th century they were modified to let even more light into rooms and bigger glazing panes started to be produced. The result was a more streamlined appearance, and windows that had a higher degree of elegance than before. Sash windows were introduced and required a new range ironmongery. Early pulleys were of wood, whereas later Victorian ones were made from brass or a combination of lead and wood, and there were many kinds of shutter hinges and knobs. These ironmongery pieces must be cleaned and preserved to appreciate their beautiful design. To keep them in good condition, wooden windows require regular maintenance. Inattention to maintenance routinely could cause: Sashes that do not slide effortlessly. window installation cambridge in the frame which allow water to get in and cause decay and damage. break down of putty, allowing water penetration, which could lead to decay of the frame and cill. In the I920s and I930s steel casement windows increased in popularity because they were strong slim and inexpensive and were in line with the trend for healthy living. Research has shown that softwood sash windows are as efficient as PVC-u windows, and may even be more attractive. The replacement window industry has done a great job convincing homeowners that their old windows were decayed, drafty and beyond economical repair. However, many old timber windows are in good shape and with minor repairs could easily be serviceable for many years to be. 5. Maintenance A traditional sash window needs regular maintenance and inspection. If you do not maintain your sash window, it could cause the sash cords breaking and the glazing bars wearing out excessively. It can also cause paint and putty become damaged. The removal of the sashes could also result in structural movement within the frame that causes the sash to move out of alignment and unable to close correctly. It is also possible for the sash to be stuck or fixed in an open position and this can let water and draughts enter the property. Moisture penetration is a frequent cause of damage to timber windows. This can be avoided by careful painting, regular repairs, and removing the source of dampness. The paint can be removed to reveal the soft, rotting wood. Any rotten sections of timber should be cut off and the affected area should be carefully cut or pieced with replacements made from the same kind of timber as the ones that remain. This method of repair increases the amount of original fabric retained and is one of the least invasive methods for treating decay of timber to timber. The use of a wood consolidant made from resin is a different option to the traditional method of staining and sanding. This is brushed on the surface of the wood to protect it and stabilize it. It is particularly beneficial for the treatment of pulleys and sash cords which help prevent the breakage. It is important that any historic ironmongery such as sash stays and latches be kept and restored rather than replaced. They can be extremely difficult to replace without compromising the the original design. It is also advised that modern aluminium fittings like sashlifts, as well as chainstays, be avoided as they could cause corrosion and deterioration of timber frames and sashes.